Kia ora,

I would like to take this opportunity to share a few updates from around the school as we continue moving through an exciting and busy period of the year.

Firstly, staffing for the next school year has now been completed. Formal announcements will be shared with the community once teachers have progressed through the initial stages of the employment process. We anticipate communicating these details in early Quarter 4 and look forward to introducing the new members who will be joining our team.

You may have noticed activity on campus, as demolition work is currently underway. This is an important step in preparing for the next phase of development. We are pleased to report that construction is expected to begin in Quarter 4, marking another milestone as we continue developing the future campus.

As we move through the semester, many exciting learning opportunities, community events, and celebrations are planned for our students. Below is a snapshot of what is coming up.

MZS Events

  • Middle School Extended Studies Trip – Bali. This week, our Middle School students depart for Bali for their Extended Studies trip. The trip will be supported by Ms. Anita, Ms. Nicole, and Mr. Bryan, and it promises to be an action-packed ten days of learning and exploration across Bali. At the conclusion of the trip, I will share photos with the community, and students will prepare a short reflection and write-up about their experiences.
  • 6–8 March – MZS/YPJ KG–G6 Art Showcase. A collaborative art exhibition with YPJ celebrating student creativity. Students have the opportunity to present their artistic work and express their ideas through visual arts.
  • 18–20 March – International Week of Multilingualism. A schoolwide celebration of languages and cultures. Students explore linguistic diversity and develop an appreciation for the many languages spoken in our community. This event will culminate in a flag parent, community dance, and an international potluck.
  • 23–24 March – MZS Safety Days. Interactive sessions with PTFI’s safety and emergency services. Students learn practical safety skills and how to respond confidently in different situations.
  • 25–27 March – KK Sports Camp. We will once again host our Sports Day in Kuala Kencana (KK). Last year, this event was very well received by students and families. It provided students with a fantastic opportunity to participate in soccer activities alongside Indonesian players from the local soccer academy and to experience elements of elite training.
  • 27 March – PreK–Grade 3 Games Day. A fun day of games organized by Grade 3 for younger learners. Students build community spirit and leadership skills while enjoying active play.
  • 30 March – 2 April – Student-Led Conferences. Students share their learning progress directly with their parents. This empowers students to reflect on their growth and take ownership of their learning.
  • 24 April – Ibu Kartini Day. A national celebration honoring Indonesian women’s empowerment. Students learn about Indonesian history, culture, and important national figures.
  • 25 April – Earth Day. Schoolwide environmental activities and projects led by G4 and 5. Students explore sustainability and their role in protecting the planet.
  • 9 May – MZS/YPJ Choir Vocal Competition. A second music event celebrating vocal performance. Students continue developing confidence and musical skills.
  • 18–22 May – Literacy Week. A week dedicated to reading, storytelling, and writing. Students strengthen their literacy skills and develop a love for reading.
  • 25–30 May – Transition to Boarding School Program. Preparation activities for students moving on to boarding schools. G6-8students develop independence, life skills, and readiness for their next learning journey.
  • 1–5 June – Quarter 4 Parent-Teacher Conferences. Data-led meetings between families and teachers. This is an opportunity to discuss student progress and next learning goals.
  • 12 June – End of Semester Art Show. A celebration of student artwork and musical skills from across the school. 

We will also hold our next Community Engagement session in Quarter 4, Thursday, April 30, 5:00 – 6:00 pm, during which we will provide further updates on staffing, a strategic planning update, feedback, and developments related to the new campus.

PTA Sponsored Events

Our PTA continues to enrich school life with wonderful community activities.

  • Hip-Hop Dance Workshops. Last week our students had a wonderful opportunity to participate in hip-hop dance sessions. The event was full of energy and enthusiasm, and students thoroughly enjoyed the experience. 
  • 14 March – MZS/YPJ Movie Saturday. A family movie evening at school. A relaxed community event for students and families to connect.
  • 20 March – International Day Potluck. Families share food from different cultures. Students experience the diversity of our international community.
  • 25 April – MZS/YPJ Movie Night. A community movie evening for families. A chance to relax together and build school community.
  • 26 April – 2 May – Gymnastics Program. A week of gymnastics activities for students. Students develop coordination, balance, and physical confidence.
  • 2–3 May – Family Weekend Soccer Clinic (KK). Soccer clinic that will allow students to further develop their skills and enjoy time together being active.
  • 4 May – Visiting Author (Ibu Enda). A special visit from an author to speak with students. Students gain inspiration for reading and writing.
  • 8 May – Hot Lunch. These events are always a popular part of school life and a great opportunity for students and the community to connect.
  • 16 May – MZS Quiz Night. Our much-anticipated community trivia evening is themed “Welcome to the Jungle.” Families and staff will come together for a fun and lively social evening filled with friendly competition and community spirit.
  • 1–10 June – Engineering for Kids Program. Hands-on STEM activities for students. Students explore creativity, design, and problem-solving.
  • 10 June – PTA Meeting & Celebration at the Lupe. Join us for an end-of-year gathering for the PTA community. A chance to reflect on the year and celebrate together.

We will also continue to host assemblies and parent learning opportunities throughout the semester. Please keep an eye on Toddle announcements and the activities calendar for the latest updates.

Thank you for your continued support of Mt Zaagkam School. We look forward to sharing many more exciting moments with you throughout the year.

Warm regards,

Alasdair Maclean

Head of School